Consider extracellular vesicles (EVs) as tiny messengers in the world of pain relief, specifically neuropathic pain. Imagine these EVs as little packages capable of transporting important cargo to cells in need. They contain proteins and various forms of RNA, including microRNAs (miRNA) and long noncoding RNAs (lncRNA). Scientists have been studying how EVs can potentially alleviate neuropathic pain by regulating glial cell activation and neuroinflammation. Neuropathic pain arises from uncontrolled glial cell activation triggered by noxious stimulation. The precise mechanisms are still a mystery, but it is clear that noncoding RNAs play a significant role in its pathogenesis. By harnessing EVs to deliver these noncoding RNAs, researchers are exploring new avenues for pain treatment. This article introduces the origins and clinical application of EVs, delves into the development of neuropathic pain, and highlights the therapeutic potential of EVs in pain management. I encourage you to explore the groundbreaking research on this exciting topic!
Extracellular vesicles (EVs) including exosomes are vesicular vesicles with phospholipid bilayer implicated in many cellular interactions and have the ability to transfer multiple types of cargo to cells. It has been found that EVs can package various molecules including proteins and nucleic acids (DNA, mRNA, and noncoding RNA). The discovery of EVs as carriers of proteins and various forms of RNA, such as microRNAs (miRNA) and long noncoding RNAs (lncRNA), has raised great interest in the field of drug delivery. Despite the underlying mechanisms of neuropathic pain being unclear, it has been shown that uncontrolled glial cell activation and the neuroinflammation response to noxious stimulation are important in the emergence and maintenance of neuropathic pain. Many studies have demonstrated a role for noncoding RNAs in the pathogenesis of neuropathic pain and EVs may offer possibilities as carriers of noncoding RNAs for potential in neuropathic pain treatment. In this article, the origins and clinical application of EVs and the mechanism of neuropathic pain development are briefly introduced. Furthermore, we demonstrate the therapeutic roles of EVs in neuropathic pain and that this involve vesicular regulation of glial cell activation and neuroinflammation.
Dr. David Lowemann, M.Sc, Ph.D., is a co-founder of the Institute for the Future of Human Potential, where he leads the charge in pioneering Self-Enhancement Science for the Success of Society. With a keen interest in exploring the untapped potential of the human mind, Dr. Lowemann has dedicated his career to pushing the boundaries of human capabilities and understanding.
Armed with a Master of Science degree and a Ph.D. in his field, Dr. Lowemann has consistently been at the forefront of research and innovation, delving into ways to optimize human performance, cognition, and overall well-being. His work at the Institute revolves around a profound commitment to harnessing cutting-edge science and technology to help individuals lead more fulfilling and intelligent lives.
Dr. Lowemann’s influence extends to the educational platform BetterSmarter.me, where he shares his insights, findings, and personal development strategies with a broader audience. His ongoing mission is shaping the way we perceive and leverage the vast capacities of the human mind, offering invaluable contributions to society’s overall success and collective well-being.